MovieChat Forums > Great Expectations (1998) Discussion > That Dinner-to-Dinner tracking shot

That Dinner-to-Dinner tracking shot


I saw this movie when it came out (I may have owned it on VHS, but I don't remember) and loved it. It was my first movie that I knew was directed by Alfonso Cuaron. And everything else he has done since, I've noticed little directorial trademarks that are all present in this movie. Except for the crazy tracking shot. I didn't remember this movie having one.

Then I watched it yesterday on TV, and sure enough the scene where he goes to the dinner/reception he gets out of the car in the rain, walks in through the revolving doors, talks to some people, says hi to Estella and Walter, they leave because they are late for dinner, he talks to some more people, then runs after them, back out the revolving door, into the rain, runs down the street, into the Chinese restaurant, up to the table, dances with Estella, then they leave, make out in the rain, then run down the street together.

I'm sure there are a few hidden edits here and there and that it wasn't actually done in one long take, but the feeling is there. And it's very similar to the ones from Children of Men.

An impressive scene. I forgot how much I enjoyed this movie. Paltrow never looked better.

reply